A Night Out in Cartagena: The Thursday Night Bar Crawl

If you’re heading to Cartagena and want a taste of local nightlife with a friendly, laid-back vibe, the Thursday Night Bar Crawl is a fantastic option. For just $20, you get about 4 hours of fun, visiting three local bars and one club right in the heart of the historic center. The tour kicks off at 8:30 pm, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the evening without rushing.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances authentic local atmosphere with a fun and social environment. First, the guides—local friends who genuinely want to share their favorite spots—are energetic and welcoming, making you feel like part of the neighborhood. Second, the special discounts and free entrance at the final club really boost the value, giving you more bang for your buck.

One thing to keep in mind is the strict dress code—no shorts, sandals, or sleeveless shirts. This might be a hassle if you’re arriving straight from a beach day, but it’s a small price to pay for the quality of experience. This tour is perfect for young travelers, singles, or groups looking to meet locals and fellow travelers in a safe, lively setting.

Key Points

Authentic local experience: Visit popular, well-loved venues in Cartagena’s historic center.
Good value: For just $20, enjoy multiple bars, discounts, and free entry to a top club.
Guides: Friendly, bilingual locals who love to party and share their city.
Duration: About 4 hours, from 8:30 pm to roughly 12:15 am.
Dress code: Strictly enforce a smart, casual look—no shorts, sandals, or sleeveless tops.
Opportunity to practice Spanish: Sometimes, locals join the crawl, so it’s a great chance to chat and learn.

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An In-Depth Look at the Cartagena Thursday Night Bar Crawl

Starting Point: Barra 7 – The First Chill Spot

The tour begins at Barra 7, a cozy cocktail bar right in Cartagena’s historic Centro Historico. It’s a perfect place to kick things off, thanks to its lively atmosphere and well-priced drinks. Here, you’re welcomed with two promotions—including a beer, shot, and cocktail—making it easy to loosen up and start your night on a high note.

Guests note the friendly environment and the chance to mingle with both locals and fellow travelers. The bar’s vibe sets the tone, with a cozy yet lively ambiance that feels authentic—that’s what makes it special. Michael_C summed it up, saying, “Loved the nightlife and the people we met! The guides are there to party with you and have fun which makes everything better.”

Xo Rooftop: The View and the Vibe

Next, the crawl heads to Xo Rooftop Cartagena, a standout for its breathtaking views and excellent cocktails. Situated high above the city, this spot offers a relaxing yet upbeat atmosphere, especially on weekends when the crowd is lively. It’s a great place to enjoy a 10% discount on your check and soak in the city lights.

This location is often highlighted for its ambiance and notable drinks, with guests like Latisha_G saying, “My favorite spot was Seven 7 Times and I loved the drinks at Furbar,” illustrating how these venues keep visitors coming back.

El Pasquin de Joaco: The Cocktail and Disco Mix

The third stop is El Pasquin, a lively cocktail bar that morphs into a disco as the night progresses. With a 10% discount on the check, this venue combines creative drinks with a dance-friendly environment, perfect for those wanting to keep the energy high.

Guests report the friendly staff, good drinks, and a lively dance scene, making it a highlight of the tour. The mix of cocktails and music here keeps the energy flowing, and many comments reflect how the guides help facilitate a fun, relaxed experience.

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The Grand Finale: Seven 7 Times Club

The tour wraps up at Seven 7 Times, arguably Cartagena’s most famous nightclub. This massive club boasts seven different rooms, each with its own vibe—ranging from Latin beats to electronic music. Entrance is free, thanks to the tour, which adds tremendous value.

Guests praise Seven 7 Times as a must-visit for anyone wanting to dance and experience Cartagena’s nightlife in full swing. The diverse music options, friendly crowd, and large dance floors appeal to many travelers. According to reviews, “Seven 7 Times attracts both locals and foreigners,” making it an ideal spot to end your night.

What Does This Tour Mean for You?

This bar crawl isn’t just about drinks—it’s an immersion into Cartagena’s local nightlife scene, where the guides aim to connect travelers with the city’s vibrant social fabric. Given the mix of local venues and the opportunity to meet Colombians, it’s perfect for social travelers, young adventurers, or solo travelers eager to make new friends.

The cost is highly reasonable, especially considering the discounts and free entry to the club. The 4-hour duration offers enough time to enjoy the nightlife without feeling exhausted, and the meeting point in the historic center makes it easy to join from most accommodations nearby.

Practical Tips

Dress smart: Remember the dress code—closed-toed shoes and pants for guys, no swimwear, or shorts.
Arrive early: The tour starts promptly at 8:30 pm, so get there ahead of time to meet your guide and fellow travelers.
Bring cash: Drinks aren’t included in the price, so bring some Colombian pesos for additional orders.
Enjoy the atmosphere: Take your time at each stop to soak up the local flavor, chat with guides and locals, and enjoy the vibe.
Stay safe: Use your judgment when drinking and keep track of your belongings, especially in busy clubs.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a fun, social way to experience Cartagena’s nightlife, this Thursday night bar crawl hits the mark. It offers a balanced mix of authentic local venues, great value, and friendly guides who ensure you have a memorable night. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to connect with locals, practice Spanish, or just dance the night away.

While it’s not a pub crawl for those seeking a quiet night or a more upscale experience, it excels at providing an energetic, lively introduction to Cartagena’s vibrant scene. The affordable price point combined with discounts and free entrance makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers eager for a genuine taste of local life.

In short, bring your good shoes, your party spirit, and an open mind—this tour is about making new friends, enjoying lively music, and ending the night in one of Latin America’s most captivating cities.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is there a dress code for the tour?
Yes. Men must wear pants and closed-toed shoes. No swimwear, sandals, shorts, hats, sportswear, sunglasses, or sleeveless shirts are allowed.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 hours, starting at 8:30 pm and ending around 12:15 am.

What’s included in the price?
You get discounts at two bars (10% off at El Pasquin and XO Rooftop), free entrance into Seven 7 Times, and a promo at Barra 7 (beer, shot, cocktail). Drinks are not included, so you should budget extra for them.

Where do we meet?
The tour begins at Barra 7, located on Cra. 6 #32-90 in the historic center. The group is dropped off at Seven 7 Times, on Calle Media Luna in Getsemaní.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
No. The minimum age is 18 years old.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes. The guides speak English and Spanish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

Are locals likely to join the crawl?
Sometimes, yes. Locals often join, providing a great chance to practice Spanish and connect.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Is this tour safe?
Absolutely, especially in the well-populated historic center. Just use common sense, keep track of your belongings, and drink responsibly.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. The tour is weather-dependent, and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund if canceled due to bad weather.

This lively Thursday night bar crawl offers a fantastic behind-the-scenes look at Cartagena’s nightlife, blending fun, culture, and great value. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a group, it’s a great way to dive into the city’s vibrant social scene and make lasting memories.